Treating Pain From Inflammation

Treatment methods can differ depending on where in the body the inflammation is and what caused it. For example, an injury to an arm or leg due to overuse or to an accident may benefit from resting the injured limb in an elevated position with a cold pack on it and taking a medication to relieve the pain from inflammation. Inflammation in other areas may not be so easily addressed.

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen work by blocking the production of certain body chemicals that cause inflammation.

Fortunately, there are a number of medications available that can decrease pain and swelling and eliminate or minimize the progression of the inflammatory process. One class of medications in this group is known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ibuprofen is an example of this type of medication.

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen work by blocking the production of certain body chemicals that cause inflammation. Ibuprofen is effective in treating pain that results from slow chronic tissue damage such as the pain of an arthritic joint, and it is also effective in reducing pain such as muscle aches, headaches, back aches, sports injuries, and menstrual pain.

It is important to remember that while acute inflammation is helpful to the body, chronic inflammation is destructive. Reducing inflammation can delay or even prevent the development of many chronic diseases.